Benefits of Green Building Practices

The current building environment has a major impact on the environment, economy, and public health of citizens. According to a report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), buildings account for 39 percent of total energy use, 12 percent of total water consumption, 68 percent of total electricity consumption, and 38 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions. By adopting green building strategies, local governments can expand and improve upon local economic development opportunities and market demand for sustainable development.

New Castle County-based Brandywine CAD is an example of adaptive reuse of the old Talleyville Post Office, which became an energy-efficient work space thanks to the Energy Department’s State Energy Program. Source: BCAD

Environmental

Assist in the conservation of environmental resources, while also reducing pollution levels, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste. The report cites a 2007 United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) study which estimates that sustainable design and green buildings could result in as much as 1.8 billion tones/year of averted carbon dioxide emissions worldwide.

Increased land preservation, lower resource and energy use, and the protection of ecological resources.

Preservation of water resources for wildlife and agriculture.

Lower electricity and fossil fuel use and decreased impacts of fossil fuel production.

Improved indoor air quality and, in turn, reductions in air pollution levels.